Indirect Speech in German
die indirekte Rede
Indirect speech is used to report statements, questions, or commands made by another person.
Indirect speech (indirekte Rede) in German is used to report statements, questions, or instructions made by another person, without quoting them word-for-word. In standard written German (especially in journalism and news broadcasts), it requires the subjunctive mood (Konjunktiv I or, as a substitute, Konjunktiv II) to maintain objectivity.
To form indirect speech, the reporting clause is linked to the reported statement using a conjunction like dass (that) or using a main clause word order with the verb in the Konjunktiv I form (e.g., er sagte, er komme morgen). If the Konjunktiv I form is identical to the indicative present, Konjunktiv II (or the würde + infinitive construction) must be used as a substitute to distinguish it from a direct quote.
A common mistake is using the normal indicative mood instead of the subjunctive in formal or journalistic writing, which compromises neutrality. In colloquial speech, however, the indicative is commonly tolerated (e.g., er sagt, dass er krank ist instead of er sagte, er sei krank). Another error is omitting the required verb forms when shifting questions or commands.
Examples
Der Minister erklärte, die Regierung plane neue Steuerreformen.
The minister explained that the government is planning new tax reforms.
Sie fragte uns, ob wir am Wochenende Zeit für einen Ausflug hätten.
She asked us if we had time for an excursion on the weekend.
Er betonte, er habe an der Besprechung gestern nicht teilgenommen.
He emphasized that he had not participated in the meeting yesterday.
Sie meinte, sie wolle morgen auf jeden Fall anrufen.
She said she wanted to call tomorrow in any case.
Die Zeitung berichtete, die Quote sei gefallen.
The newspaper reported that the rate had fallen.
Related terms
Learn German in context — free dictionary and practice.